Whether you are writing, presenting or just talking with someone else, the critical way to create a memory of what you did or said is to keep the message to 3 points.

From a young age our learning is centered around the number three. Three Blind Mice, Three Little Pigs and Goldilocks and the Three Bears are stories that use the power of 3 to engage youngsters. Even the numbers you use to count have a unique status for the first three numbers while all the others just fit in. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd have their own endings contrast that with 4th, 5th, to 19th.

As we enter the next phase of life the number three continues to be a part of our lives. From the Three Stooges to the Three Musketeers to stories where you get 3 wishes that will be granted, three continues to follow your growth. Sports follows the rule of three as well. If you’re an athlete and you participate in an Olympic event did you win a gold, silver or bronze medal? In baseball 3 strikes and you’re out plus 3 outs to your team’s turn at bat. How about using those 3 wishes to go to a horse race and bet on the trifecta?

As life continues the number three continues to have an impact on our lives. The Father, Son, and Holy Ghost and the 3 Wiseman help us to see. The mind, body, and spirit are another dimension connecting health with the magic of three which could include addressing issues of the past, living in the present, and envisioning the future.

Our forefathers used threes too. How about life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? A good mantra to follow.

When you present in business, stick to 3 bullet points per slide and 3 main ideas to communicate in a presentation. If trying to convince someone to purchase what you are selling, stick to 3 reasons you solve their issue(s). An example you may remember in advertising follows this form too with a “ snap, crackle, pop.”

So celebrate your success. Would you like vanilla, chocolate, or strawberry ice cream?